Veterans

David Lopez

David Lopez (82) was born in Santa Paula, CA. Before he was drafted in 1951, he was working at Port Hueneme Naval Base as a longshoreman. His military service was carried out from 1951 to September 1953. During his service period, he went to Pusan, Korea, where he was stationed at the Kansas line with the 24th Division, 19th Infantry Regiment, 2 BN Geo. Company. By the time of his discharge, he had become a SFC. He played a role in the Defense of Korea, the Punchbowl, and the Iron Triangle. For his commitments, he received the CIB, Purple Heart, UN Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Korean Service and Occupation Medals. Among the friends he remembers are Benny Banazewski, Robert Hiese, and Leo Torninato. After coming home to California, he returned to work as a longshoreman at Port Hueneme Naval Base. Now he belongs to KWVA, Chapter 56.